CJTF Partners Closing the Gap on Daesh Remnants

SOUTHWEST ASIA - Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve forces supported Syrian Democratic Force partners in clearing the town of Abu Naytl, June 18, in one of the largest clearing operations in Syria since Mar. 23, the day marking the end of the Daesh so-called caliphate.

Daesh terrorists had infiltrated the village, inciting tribal violence and threatening community leaders. Approximately 1,000 SDF soldiers, supported by CJTF-OIR, participated in the daytime clearance operation and successfully cleared the village of Daesh terrorists.

Since the defeat of Daesh's so-called physical caliphate on March 23, the Coalition and SDF have conducted more than 50 operations targeting Daesh sleeper cells throughout northeast Syria. These operations resulted in the detention of more than 140 known terrorists and the removal of more than 3,000 improvised explosive devices and unexploded ordnance.

Constant pressure by both the SDF in Syria and Iraqi Security Force clearance operations in Iraq have resulted in Daesh militants attempting to regroup in order to continue threatening regional stability, according to Maj. Gen. Christopher Ghika, Deputy Commander for Stability for CJTF-OIR. Partner forces, supported by CJTF-OIR firepower and intelligence, continue to suppress and destroy Daesh resources and deny their freedom of movement as they seek safe havens.

"Operations like this show just how much progress has been made in destroying Daesh," said Ghika. "But that doesn't mean the fight is won. Daesh doesn't need territory to remain a global and regional threat as it attempts to resurge. Our resolve remains firm, and we will continue to assist our partners in consolidating their gains and pursuing the remnants of Daesh."

CJTF-OIR partners in Iraq and Syria are actively engaged in the constant pursuit of Daesh to enable stabilization activities. Stabilization activities include continued back-clearance of population centers, as well as civilian projects such as removal of rubble, restoration of public infrastructure and services.